Best Côtes du Rhône Villages: Laudun from Chateau Courac

Calling all Rhône lovers: the new 2021 Laudun Côtes du Rhône Villages has been released from Château Courac and, since having applied a thorough tasting investigation, we’re happy to report our thumbs turned unanimously upwards – the 2021 is an indisputable winner. You will find all the enticingly dark, bold, juicy, spicy fruit flavours its dazzling depth of colour promises. Just looking at it and already you’re anticipating such layers of gorgeous flavours unfolding.

The 2021 vintage carries on a streak of exceptional vintages in the region, with Château Courac’s expression an undeniable showstopper. A fabulous 'best-of-both' vintage sitting between the cool, fresh zip of 2020 and the bold powerful warmth of 2022. Here, a blend of mostly syrah complemented by grenache and mourvèdre in a wonderful medley of spicy, bold red and black fruit whose sheer opulence is so elegantly balanced with refreshing, spicy undertones.

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Indispensable Rhône-drinking pleasure in a higher, ‘villages’-level CdR cuvée that takes its name from the charming village of Laudun which, in the warm embrace of the southern Rhône Valley, boasts a neighbouring appellation of none other than Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Tasting Notes

The deep, rich, inky colour in the glass suggests a robust and grippy wine, but the 2021 vintage surprises with a sense of elegance and freshness on the palate. Initially restrained, the nose quickly opens in the glass, revealing aromas of blackcurrant and spice. Decanting enhances the aromatic experience.

On the palate, a medley of ripe, dark-berry fruit, spice, and freshness shines through. Flavours of blackcurrant, sweet black cherry, cracked black pepper, and a hint of liquorice create a complex profile, where gorgeously ripe fruit is balanced by a refreshing acidity.

The finish is well-structured, with dark, brambly fruit re-emerging, complemented by a cool freshness. This lovely glass of red, at a modest two years of age, will develop further with additional bottle ageing, encouraging leathery, spicy notes and deeper layers of dark, brambly fruit.

Drink Now-2028 | 14.5% ABV

James Russell-Grant, Sales, Mr.Wheeler Wine